Diaper adapted for collection of urine sample from an infant

ABSTRACT

A disposable diaper product useful for collecting a urine sample from an infant is disclosed. In one example the product may have a liquid control structure overlying a liquid impermeable backsheet, with a plan surface area defining a volume coextensive therewith, wherein a portion of the volume defined by at least 50 percent of the plan surface area contains no more than 50 percent by weight absorbent material. In another example the product may have a liquid control structure overlying a liquid impermeable backsheet, and have an average Liquid Release Ratio of at least 3 percent. A method for collecting a urine sample from an infant is also disclosed, in which a diaper is used for collection.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This applications claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional ApplicationsNo. 62/301,679, filed Mar. 1, 2016, and No. 62/315,961, filed Mar. 31,2016, the substances of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Collection of urine samples from infants is sometimes desired formedical diagnostic or research purposes, for example, to identify orstudy characteristics or effects of medical conditions such asinfections, allergies, presence of drugs in the infants' systems, orother conditions. Urine can be tested to yield information relating tokidney function, electrolyte balance and some illnesses and infections.Testing for the presence of drugs in newborn babies is increasinglydesired, as problems associated with maternal drug abuse are comingunder greater scrutiny; analysis of urine samples is a commonly usedtesting method.

Typically in such circumstances it is desired to obtain a sample that isfree of contamination by fecal matter or other substances that maycontact the urine after urination. It is also typically desired that theurine sample is intact, in that quantities or water or otherconstituents have not been removed by, e.g., evaporation or absorptioninto, e.g., absorbent components of a diaper.

Particularly in young infants, urination is usually not sufficientlypredictable to provide warning or time for a caregiver to prepare tocollect an uncontaminated and intact sample at the time urinationoccurs.

There are currently various devices and methods that that have beenadopted by health care professionals to collect urine samples. Thesehave included inserting extra absorbent material (such as cottonwadding) into a diaper proximate the discharge location; following aurination event, the material may be removed from the diaper andcompressed to expel the absorbed urine into a sample container. Othermethods have involved use of catheters (internal and external). Thesemethods have not been entirely satisfactory; they have been deemedoverly cumbersome, messy, or undesirably uncomfortable and/or invasivefor the infant patient.

Currently available disposable absorbent diapers are not satisfactoryfor collecting uncontaminated and intact urine samples, because they donot isolate urine from fecal matter; they absorb aqueous liquidrelatively quickly and do not readily release it; and they often includematerials that can contaminate a urine sample and/or otherwise render itnon-representative of its composition immediately following urination.

Therefore, there is room for improvement to methods and/or devices bywhich uncontaminated and intact urine samples may be collected frominfants.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a diaper in a relaxed, opened positionas it might appear resting on a table, wearing-facing side up.

FIG. 2A is a plan view of a diaper in an extended and flat condition,with wearer-facing surfaces facing the viewer.

FIG. 2B is a plan view of another example of a diaper in an extended andflat condition, with wearer-facing surfaces facing the viewer.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a diaper in an extended and flat condition,with outward-facing surfaces facing the viewer.

FIG. 4 is a schematic, exploded longitudinal cross-section of oneexample of the diaper shown in FIG. 2A, taken along line 4-4 shown inFIG. 2A.

FIG. 5A is a schematic, exploded lateral cross-section of the diapershown in FIG. 2A, taken along line 5A-5A shown in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 5B is a schematic, exploded lateral cross-section of the diapershown in FIG. 2B, taken along line 5B-5B shown in FIG. 2B.

FIG. 6A is a schematic, exploded lateral cross-section of one example ofthe diaper shown in FIG. 2A, taken along line 6-6 shown in FIG. 2A anddepicting such portion of the diaper stretched out laterally against anylateral contraction of included pre-strained elastic members.

FIG. 6B is a schematic, exploded lateral cross-section of one example ofdiaper shown in FIG. 2A, taken along line 6-6 shown in FIG. 2A anddepicting such portion of the diaper laterally contracted as might occurwith the presence of included laterally pre-strained elastic members.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged schematic, perspective depiction of a portion ofan apertured film topsheet, with apertures defined by funnel structures.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged schematic depiction of a cross section of portionof an apertured film topsheet, taken through a funnel structure.

FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section indicatedin circled region 9, in FIG. 4, in one example.

FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section indicatedin circled region 9, in FIG. 4, in another example.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES Definitions

The term “hydrophilic” describes surfaces such as film or fibersurfaces, which are wettable by aqueous fluids (e.g., aqueous bodyfluids) deposited on these fibers. Hydrophilicity and wettability aretypically defined in terms of contact angle and the strike through timeof the fluids, for example through a nonwoven fabric. This is discussedin detail in the American Chemical Society publication entitled “Contactangle, wettability and adhesion”, edited by Robert F. Gould (Copyright1964). A fiber or surface of a fiber is said to be wetted by a fluid(i.e., hydrophilic) when either the contact angle between the fluid andthe fiber, or its surface, is less than 90°, or when the fluid tends tospread spontaneously across the surface of the fiber, both conditionsare normally co-existing. Conversely, a fiber or surface of the fiber isconsidered to be hydrophobic/non-wettable if the contact angle isgreater than 90° and the fluid does not spread spontaneously across thesurface of the fiber.

The “liquid control structure” of a diaper includes all components andstructure overlying a urine impermeable backsheet, and disposed alongand straddling the longitudinal axis of the diaper, except for atopsheet. If the diaper includes a topsheet, the liquid controlstructure includes all components and structure disposed between theurine impermeable backsheet and the topsheet, and disposed along andstraddling the longitudinal axis of the diaper. An absorbent corestructure as typically appears in currently marketed disposable diapersis one type of “liquid control structure” as the latter term is usedherein; however, a “liquid control structure” as the term is morebroadly used herein may retainably absorb aqueous liquid, as will anabsorbent core structure of a typical diaper, or may, alternatively, beadapted not to, or have a portion adapted not to, retainably absorbaqueous liquid. The liquid control structure of a diaper has a plansurface area when the diaper is laid out in extended and flatconfiguration on a horizontal surface, viewed from above along adirection orthogonal to the surface. The plan surface area also definesa volume of space, coextensive with the plan surface area in the x-yplane and quantified by the plan surface area and the averagez-direction caliper or thickness of the liquid control structure.

“Length,” with respect to a diaper or a component thereof, refers to adimension measured along a direction generally perpendicular to thewaist edges of the diaper.

“Longitudinal,” with respect to a diaper or a component thereof, refersto a direction generally perpendicular to the waist edges of the diaper.

A “nonwoven” web material is a manufactured web of directionally orrandomly oriented fibers consolidated into a web and bonded by friction,entanglement, thermal bonding, mechanical bonding, cohesion and/oradhesion, or any combination thereof. The term excludes film, paper andproducts which are woven, knitted or stitch-bonded. The fibers may be ofnatural or man-made (synthetic) origin. They may be staple fibers orcontinuous fibers. Nonwoven fabrics can be formed by processes such asbut not limited to meltblowing, spunbonding, dry-laying, wet-laying andcarding, and combinations thereof. The basis weight of nonwoven webmaterials is usually expressed in grams per square meter (gsm).

“Width,” with respect to a diaper or a component thereof, refers to adimension measured along a direction generally parallel to the waistedges of the diaper.

“Lateral,” “transverse,” and forms thereof, with respect to a diaper ora component thereof, refers to a direction generally parallel to thewaist edges of the diaper.

“Urine impermeable,” with respect to a sheet or layer component of adiaper positioned to receive urine, means that the urine will not passthrough the sheet or layer from one side to the other, withoutapplication of an amount of pressure, exceeding atmospheric level, tothe urine as it contacts the sheet or layer. A urine impermeable sheetor layer of material may be formed of a continuous, unapertured andnon-porous polymer film; or a polymer film with apertures or pores thatare sufficiently small in combination with sufficiently hydrophobicsurface properties of the polymer such that urine will not pass throughthe apertures or pores without application of pressure; or a fibrousnonwoven web material having a combination of sufficiently smallinterstitial/intrafiber spaces or pores and sufficiently hydrophobicsurface properties of the fibers such that urine will not pass throughthe apertures or pores without application of pressure. An apertured orporous sheet or layer of material may be urine impermeable as definedabove, but may be permeable to water vapor.

“Urine permeable,” with respect to a sheet or layer component of adiaper positioned to receive urine, means that urine will pass throughthe sheet or layer from one side to the other, without application of anamount of pressure, exceeding atmospheric level, to the urine as itcontacts the sheet or layer. A urine permeable sheet or layer ofmaterial may be formed of a polymer film, having apertures or pores thatare sufficiently large, and/or having sufficiently hydrophilic surfaceproperties, such that urine will pass through the apertures or poreswithout application of pressure. A urine permeable sheet or layer ofmaterial may be formed of a fibrous nonwoven web material, havingsufficiently large apertures, interstitial/intrafiber spaces or pores,and/or having sufficiently hydrophilic surface properties of the fibers,such that urine will pass through the apertures orinterstitial/intrafiber spaces or pores without application of pressure.

“Inboard” and “outboard” are relative terms relating the locations oftwo features of a diaper with respect to a longitudinal axis of thediaper. A first feature of a diaper is inboard of a second feature ofthe diaper, and the second feature is outboard of the first feature,when the first feature lies closer to the longitudinal axis of thediaper than the second feature.

“Underlie” and “overlie” (and forms thereof) refer to a verticalpositional relationship between two components of a diaper that is open,extended and laid out flat on a horizontal surface with thewearer-facing surfaces facing up. With the diaper in this position, afirst component overlies a second component, and the second componentunderlies the first component, when the first component lies directly orindirectly over or on top of the second component, or the secondcomponent lies directly or indirectly beneath the first component.

The terms “upper” and “lower,” and forms thereof, used with respect tocomponents of a diaper, relate to the vertical direction and positioningof the components when the diaper is open, extended and laid out flat ona horizontal surface with the wearer-facing surfaces facing up. Withrespect to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A and 6B, the uppermost components depictedare nearest the top of the page and the lowermost components are nearestthe bottom of the page.

“Wearer-facing,” with respect to a diaper or a component thereof, meansthe side of the diaper or component that faces the wearer's body whenthe diaper is worn in its normal configuration, with the backsheet tothe outside. “Outward-facing” means the side of the diaper or componentthat faces away from the wearer when the diaper is worn in its normalconfiguration. In FIG. 4, the wearer-facing side of each componentdepicted is to the left, and the outward-facing side of each componentis to the right. In FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A and 6B, the wearer-facing side ofeach component depicted is toward the top of each figure, and theoutward-facing side is toward the bottom.

“x-y plane”, used with respect to a diaper, relates to a plane parallelto a horizontal surface upon which the diaper may be opened, extendedand laid out flat with the wearer-facing surfaces facing up. Withrespect to FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3, the plane of the page is an x-y plane.

“z-direction,” used with respect to a diaper, relates to the directionorthogonal to the x-y plane. With respect to FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3, thez-direction is the direction orthogonal to the plane of the page.

Description

FIGS. 1-9B depict various features of the invention that may be embodiedindividually or in any combination in a diaper 10. Diaper 10 may have arear waist region 11, front waist region 12 and crotch region 13 betweenthe front waist region and rear waist region. For reference, the lateralwidth of diaper 10 may be equally divided lengthwise by an imaginarylongitudinal axis 4-4 (FIG. 2A).

Diaper 10 may including a pair of fastening members 50 extendinglaterally outboard of the main structure in the rear waist region 11.Fastening members 50 may be integral and/or contiguous with othercomponents forming the diaper (such as the backsheet and/or topsheet),or may be separately formed and attached via bonds 53 as suggested inFIGS. 2A, 2B and 3. Fastening members 50 may be formed of a nonwoven webmaterial, a polymer film material (which may be elastomeric), a stretchlaminate material, or any other web/sheet material having lateraltensile strength suitable for sustaining lateral tensile forces presentwhen the diaper is fastened about an intended wearer. Each fasteningmember may have affixed thereon a fastening component 51 such as a patchof hooks, forming a component of a hook-and loop fastening system. Acorresponding patch of loops material may be included on the outer sideof front waist region 12 of the diaper at a landing zone 52. It will beappreciated that other types of fastening components and fasteningsystems are known and may be used as an alternative to a hook-and-loopsystem.

Diaper 10 may have an outward-facing backsheet 14 and a wearer-facingtopsheet 16. Backsheet 14 and topsheet 16 may be affixed together eitherdirectly, or with other layers interposed therebetween, to form anenveloped space therebetween. In one example, backsheet 14 and topsheet16 may be affixed together partially or entirely about their peripheriesby deposits of adhesive 54.

Backsheet

Diaper 10 may have an outer backsheet 14 that forms most of theoutward-facing surfaces of the diaper when worn. Backsheet 14 may beurine impermeable and may be formed of a single layer of material or maybe formed of a laminate of two or more layers of material. In oneexample, backsheet 14 may be formed of an inner layer of an effectivelyurine impermeable polymeric film, laminated with an outer layer of anonwoven web material. An outer layer of nonwoven material may beincluded for purposes of enhancing tensile strength of the backsheetand/or for imparting a softer, more cloth-like feel and appearance tothe backsheet. In another example, an effectively urine impermeablebacksheet may be formed of a nonwoven web material alone, having atleast a layer of closely-spaced, fine fibers such as meltblown fibersthat are hydrophilic, e.g., in a spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS)layered configuration. In a simpler example, backsheet 14 may be formedof a layer of polymeric film alone.

In disposable diapers, it is often desired that the backsheet have highopacity, for aesthetic purposes of concealment of the presence ofexudates contained in the diaper while it is worn. However, for purposesof timely collection of a sample, in some examples it may be desiredthat the backsheet have sufficient translucency to enable easy visualdetection of the presence of urine therein. Manipulation of opacity(conversely, translucency) by selection of material components,opacifying additives, and manufacturing techniques is well known in theart. For purposes of decreasing opacity/increasing translucency,opacifying additives (such as, for example, TiO₂) may be minimized oreven omitted entirely. Clarifying additives may be included in the resinformulations used to form the backsheet materials, e.g., backsheet filmand/or nonwoven fibers. For purposes described above, it may be desiredthat the backsheet have an opacity of no greater than 50 percent, morepreferably no greater than 45 percent, even more preferably no greaterthan 40 percent, and still more preferably no greater than 35 percent,as measured by the opacity test method described below.

Topsheet

Diaper 10 may include a liquid control structure 15 adapted to receiveand control, and in some circumstances absorb and retain liquid exudates(e.g., urine). As may be seen in FIGS. 4-6, diaper 10 may include atopsheet overlying the liquid control structure 15 such that liquidcontrol structure 15 is disposed in the diaper between the backsheet 14and the topsheet 16 in the front waist region 12.

Topsheet 16 may be formed of a urine permeable material, for example, anonwoven material such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,968,614. Forpurposes of ensuring passage of urine through the topsheet 16 to thematerials of the liquid control structure 15, thereby minimizing chancesof loss or contamination of a urine sample, it may be desired that thetopsheet 16 be formed of an apertured nonwoven material formed offibers. The fiber constituents may be selected or manufactured to beinherently hydrophilic, or may be treated, e.g., with an application ofa suitable surfactant, to impart hydrophilic surface properties.Suitable examples of apertured topsheets are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.7,033,340; 6,680,422; 6,498,284; 6,414,215; 5,516,572; and 5,342,338;and in pending U.S. application Ser. No. 14/270,468. In one example,synthetic polymer fiber constituents of a topsheet, such as fibers spunfrom polypropylene and/or polyethylene resin (ordinarily hydrophobicmaterials) may be treated to impart them with hydrophilic surfaces usingthe materials and method described in, for example, U.S. App. Pub. No.2011/0015602. Following such treatment, the hydrophilizing materials arecross-linked and/or chemically grafted to the fiber constituents, suchthat they do not wash off (i.e., dissolve) in aqueous liquid (e.g.,urine).

In another example, topsheet 16 may be formed of an apertured film. Useof an apertured film may be preferred, for example, in diapers for usewith premature or very young and/or relatively small infants. Suchdiapers are typically assigned a size designation of 2 or lower, 1 orlower, or even 0 or lower. Such infants usually have relatively smallbladder capacity and may discharge only small quantities of urine (e.g.,less than about 50 mL) in a single urination event. The benefit of anapertured film topsheet is that it may be less likely and/or capable ofretainably absorbing a substantial quantity of urine, than a topsheetformed of a fibrous nonwoven material. In a more specific example,topsheet 16 may be formed of an apertured formed film, or in an evenmore specific example, a vacuum formed apertured film. Features ofsuitable examples of apertured films are commonly found in topsheets incurrently marketed feminine hygiene pads, and are also disclosed in, forexample, U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,679,391; 6,471,716; 6,989,187 and 4,629,643;and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2015/0273793.

As will be further appreciated from the description below, in someexamples of the diaper herein, and in contrast to conventionaldisposable diapers, the patient-wearer's urine might not be absorbed ina structure beneath the topsheet to a substantial degree. Rather,following discharge, the urine may flow through the topsheet and be heldsubstantially unabsorbed in the enveloped space between the topsheet andbacksheet, until the diaper is removed from the wearer and the urine ispoured out into a sample container. Therefore, it may be desired thatthe topsheet be adapted to permit the urine to move relatively freelyafter discharge, from the wearer-facing side of the topsheet through tothe outward-facing side of the topsheet and into the envelope space, butto obstruct or inhibit urine flow back through the topsheet from theenvelope space toward the wearer.

In one example suitable for such purpose, an apertured film topsheet maybe used, particularly one having a pattern of apertures 36 that aredefined by funnel structures 37 as depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8. Forpurposes herein, a “funnel structure” is characterized as a structuredefining an aperture (passageway) through the topsheet that is larger onthe wearer-facing (liquid entry) side than on the outward-facing (liquidexit) side. Referring to FIG. 8, by way of non-limiting example, forapertures 36 that are circular in shape when the topsheet is viewed inplan view, the aperture/passageway on the wearer-facing side 38 of thetopsheet will have diameter D_(W), and the aperture/passageway on theoutward-facing side will have diameter D_(O). In the example depicted,the passageway roughly defines a cone shape. For a circular/cone-shapedfunnel structure 37, D_(W) will be greater than D_(O). Apertured filmtopsheets having such funnel structures can be manufactured by vacuumforming or otherwise as described in the above-cited references. It willbe appreciated, that apertures and funnel structures need notnecessarily be circular/cone-shaped; see, e.g., the various shapes forfunnel structures depicted and described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,989,187.Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the funnelstructures, being formed of relatively thin and pliable polymeric filmmaterials, tend to collapse toward their centers when fluid exertspressure against the outward-facing surface 39. It is believed that thiscollapsing behavior causes the apertures to partially or entirely close;thus, the funnel structures function like one-way check valves that tendto permit fluid to flow through from the wearer-facing side 38 to theenvelope space, and tend to obstruct or inhibit flow back through thetopsheet from the envelope space, from the outward-facing side 39 andtoward the wearer.

In some circumstances, it may be desired that a film topsheet not beincluded. Rather, a topsheet formed of nonwoven web, or even no topsheetoverlying the liquid control structure, may be desirable. Particularlywhen use with premature infants is contemplated, a film topsheet maypresent a risk of sticking to the skin, which may be undesirable in somecircumstances because a premature infant's skin may be very delicate.

Urine Capture Layer

As discussed above, topsheet 16, which may be adapted to allowdischarged urine to freely pass therethrough, may be desired.Additionally, it may be desired that the diaper include a urine capturelayer 34 beneath the topsheet 16 and above the backsheet 14.

Urine capture layer 34 may be included and may serve one or morefunctions: (1) to provide an open structure that occupies a volume, andthereby ensures the presence of space within the envelope structurebetween topsheet 16 and backsheet 14, available to receive urine whilethe diaper is being worn by an infant; (2) to absorb and dispersekinetic energy in a gush of urine during discharge by the wearer,thereby slowing and controlling flow thereof inside the diaper andreduce the chances of a leak; and (3) to provide a matrix structure thatholds urine and restricts rapid flow back and forth within the volumeoccupied by the layer, reducing the chances of a leak, prior to the timethe diaper is removed for urine sample retrieval.

Because a purpose of the diaper 10 as described herein may be toinitially receive and collect, but then release, urine to be sampledupon removal from the patient, it may be desired that urine capturelayer 34 does not have substantially absorbent properties. This may beparticularly important for younger infant patients, who urinate in onlyrelatively small volumes at a time. Accordingly, it may be desired thaturine capture layer 34 be formed of or include a batt or pad ofaccumulated synthetic fibers spun from suitable polymeric resin(s), or asingle- or multilayer section of fibrous nonwoven web materialcomprising fibers spun or otherwise formed of such resin(s). Theresin(s) may be selected such that the fibers formed therefrom havehydrophobic surface properties, and thereby do not tend to attract orretainably hold aqueous liquid in the interstitial spaces within thefiber matrix, or otherwise, freely give up deposits of aqueous liquidupon light compression (light squeezing, rolling or wringing) of thediaper. Suitable materials and additives for forming a urine capturelayer 34 are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,598,406 and US2004/4158213. If desired, additives and/or treatments that render thefibers hydrophilic may be omitted, to reduce the absorbency of the layer34. Examples of suitable synthetic, hydrophobic fibers which may be usedto form all or a portion of a urine capture layer include fibers formedof one or more polyolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene).Alternatively, to promote distribution of discharged urine within thevolume occupied by the liquid control structure, thereby enhancingcapacity, urine capture layer 34 may be formed of or include a batt orpad (one or more layers thereof) including synthetic fibers spun orotherwise formed of materials that yield fibers that have hydrophilicsurface properties. In addition to enhancing capacity, by having someattraction for aqueous liquid, hydrophilic fibers may reduceuncontrolled movement of urine back and forth within the liquid controlstructure. Non-limiting examples of synthetic materials that may be usedto form such fibers include polyamides (e.g., nylon); polyesters (e.g.,polyethylene terephthalate (PET)); polylactic acid (PLA); rayon; viscoseand lyocell. In one example, urine capture layer 34 may include a blendof both hydrophilic synthetic fibers and hydrophobic fibers (such asfibers spun from polyolefins such as polypropylene and/or polyethylene).In another example, a multi-layered structure including, e.g., a layerformed predominately of synthetic hydrophobic fibers, and a layer formedpredominately of hydrophobic fibers, to balance performance with respectto effective distribution of urine through the liquid control layer, anda desired level of non-absorbency and/or average Liquid Release Ratiofor the diaper (described below).

Other naturally hydrophilic fiber components may be included in theurine capture layer following urination. Such components may includenatural fibers, including but not limited to cellulosic fibers such aswood pulp fibers (included treated wood fibers) and cotton fibers, flax,linen and hemp fibers, and animal fibers such as wool, silk, fur andhair fibers. In another alternative, it may be desired to treathydrophobic material(s) forming urine capture layer 34 with a surfactantcomposition to render their surfaces hydrophilic. In one example,synthetic polymer fiber constituents of a urine capture layer 34, suchas fibers spun from polypropylene and/or polyethylene resin (ordinarilyhydrophobic materials) may be treated to impart them with hydrophilicsurfaces using the materials and method described in, for example, U.S.App. Pub. No. 2011/0015602. Following such treatment, the hydrophilizingmaterials are cross-linked and/or chemically grafted to the fiberconstituents, such that they do not wash off (i.e., dissolve) in aqueousliquid (e.g., urine).

In another example, or in combination, synthetic polymer fiberconstituents of a urine capture layer 34, such as fibers spun frompolypropylene and/or polyethylene resin (ordinarily hydrophobicmaterials) may be treated to impart them with hydrophilic surfaces byapplication of one or more of the materials described in, for example,U.S. Pat. No. 8,178,748. The '748 patent identifies materials such asARLAMOL PS15E (a PPG-15 stearyl ether formulation currently availablefrom Croda International Plc, East Yorkshire, UK). Such a material mayprovide an advantage in that it imparts hydrophilicity to the surfacesof synthetic polymer fibers, while being insoluble in water and tendingto remain adhered to the fiber surfaces, and thus may not dissolve orbecome dispersed in the desired urine sample and thereby contaminate it.Other materials that may have similar properties and advantages mayinclude, but are not limited to, those comprising functionalities ofpolyethylene glycol (PEG), polypropylene glycol (PPG), and polybutyleneglycol (PBG) functional groups can be used to treat a portion of thenonwoven 24 to form the hydrophilic zone 37. Nonionic surfactants havinga functional group selected from the group consisting of polyethyleneglycol (PEG), polypropylene glycol (PPG), polybutylene glycol (PBG), andcombinations thereof can be used to treat a portion of the nonwoven 24to form the hydrophilic zone 37. The degree of polymerization of apolyether functional group in a non-ionic surfactant can be betweenabout 2 and about 100. Because examples of such materials may berelatively stable, oily liquids that do not evaporate at roomtemperature within time periods in circumstances contemplated herein, itmay be desired that they be applied to surfaces underlying a topsheet orother wearer-facing surface or layer, so as not to be susceptible tobeing rubbed off by contact with the wearer.

In conjunction with the inclusion of a soluble surfactant composition orother soluble additives, the diaper 10 can be provided with associatedpackaging, package insert or other media bearing information effectiveto notify health care and/or analytical personnel of the inclusion ofthe soluble surfactant composition in the diaper. Alternatively, suchinformation may be printed on the diaper itself, in a suitablynoticeable and visible location.

To reduce or prevent opportunity for substantial retaining absorption ofthe urine, it may be desired that the liquid control structure 15 notcontain a substantial quantity of water-absorbent material of the typestypically used in absorbent storage layers of disposable diapers,disposable absorbent pants and other absorbent personal hygieneproducts, i.e., cellulose fibers; cotton fibers, other plant fibers,absorbent sponge; absorbent foam; superabsorbent polymer; absorbentgelling material; hydrogel-forming particles; and/or absorbent polymerparticles collectively herein, “absorbent material”. (The term“absorbent material” as used herein is not intended to include materialsnot listed in the preceding sentence.) Thus, it may be desired that thevolume of the liquid control structure coextensive with at least 50percent of the plan surface area of the liquid control structurecontains no more than 50 percent, more preferably no more than 35percent, even more preferably no more than 20 percent, or 10 percent, or5 percent and still more preferably no more than an insubstantialquantity or even about 0 percent, by weight absorbent material. It maybe even further preferred that the volume of the liquid controlstructure coextensive with at least 65 percent, or 80 percent, 90percent, 95 percent or even substantially all of the plan surface areaof the liquid control structure contains no more than 50 percent, morepreferably no more than 35 percent, even more preferably no more than 20percent, or 10 percent, or 5 percent and still more preferably no morethan an insubstantial quantity or even about 0 percent, by weightabsorbent material.

It may be appreciated that the liquid control structure 15, and moreparticularly the urine capture layer 34, may be formed of a variety ofmaterials in a variety of sizes and/or shapes that can serve functionsof a urine capture layer identified above, while avoiding stubbornlyretaining absorption of urine. Accordingly, when use for obtaining aurine sample is a primary purpose of the diaper 10, it may be desiredthat the product have an average Liquid Release Ratio of at least 3percent, more preferably at least 5 percent, even more preferably atleast 15 percent, 25 percent, 35 percent, 45 percent, and still morepreferably at least 50 percent, as measured by the Liquid Release RatioTest Method described below. Providing a diaper product having storagespace for urine provided by an envelope structure and a urine capturelayer, but having limited absorption tendency, ensures that asubstantial portion of urine deposited in such diaper by the wearer isrecoverable by the caregiver for sampling purposes.

For purpose of obtaining a urine sample that accurately represents theurine at the time of discharge, it may be desired that the envelopespace between the topsheet and backsheet contain no more than aninsubstantial quantity of water-soluble materials. As a reflection ofthe absence of a substantial quantity of water-soluble materials, forpurposes herein, purified water deposited into the diaper and thenemptied out of the diaper will exhibit a conductivity no greater than 1S/m (siemens/meter), more preferably no greater than 0.1 S/m, and evenmore preferably no more than 0.01 S/m, measured according to theConductivity Test specified below. Alternatively, or in combination, theemptied water will exhibit a surface tension from 20 mN/m(milli-Newton/meter) to 72 mN/m, more preferably from 30 mN/m to 72mN/m, even more preferably from 40 mN/m to 72 mN/m, and still morepreferably from 50 mN/m to 72 mN/m, measured according to the SurfaceTension Test specified below.

Longitudinal Cuffs

Diaper 10 may include a pair of standing longitudinal cuffs 18. Suchcuffs are currently common in disposable diapers and are variously knownas gasketing cuffs, standing cuffs, barrier cuffs, etc. Longitudinalcuffs 18 may be formed of a fibrous nonwoven material, a polymeric filmmaterial, or a laminate thereof. In one example, longitudinal cuffs 18may be formed of an effectively urine impermeable material, which willserve to prevent escape of urine collected in the diaper. Non-limitingexamples of suitable materials for forming longitudinal cuffs aredescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,695,463.

As reflected in FIG. 5A, longitudinal cuffs 18 may each have a proximalportion 21 affixed to an underlying component of the diaper structuresuch as a topsheet and/or backsheet, and a free longitudinal distal edge20. Each cuff 18 may be longitudinally affixed along the proximalportion 21 to the diaper structure by mechanical or thermal bonding, byadhesive or other means, or a combination thereof, however, use ofadhesive to bond or supplementally bond proximal portions 21 to thestructure may serve to provide a liquid seal at the junction between thecuff 18 and the underlying component. In one example, the proximalportion 21 of the cuff 18 is bonded to the rear topsheet 17 with acontinuous application of adhesive therebetween, to provide a liquidseal at the junction. The adhesive may be a hot-melt type adhesiveconventionally used in the manufacture of disposable diapers.

As may be appreciated from FIG. 2A, the material forming longitudinalcuffs 18 and the free distal edges 20 thereof may additionally be bondedto the diaper structure at cuff edge/end bonds 22. In combination, cuffs18 may each include one or more longitudinal cuff elastic members 19proximate the free longitudinal distal edges 20. During manufacturing,longitudinal cuff elastic members 19 may be incorporated and affixedinto the cuff 18 structures in a pre-strained condition. Upon completionof manufacturing, release from the manufacturing line, and relaxation ofthe diaper structure, the elastic members 19 longitudinally contracttoward their unstrained lengths, causing the free edges 20 to pulllongitudinally against the cuff end/edge bonds 22, thereby causing thediaper 10 structure to curl toward the wearer-facing side as suggestedin FIG. 1, and causing the free edges 20 of the cuffs to pull away fromthe structure and the cuffs to “stand.” This feature causes the freeedges 20 of the cuffs to extend toward and draw against the wearer'sskin along the buttocks and through the crotch region, when the diaperis worn, thereby performing a gasketing function that serves to containexudates between the cuffs 18.

This combination of cuff end/edge bonds 22 and pre-strained longitudinalcuff elastic members 19 can cause the cuffs 18 to stand as describedabove regardless of whether the edges 20 and end/edge bonds 22 aredisposed inboard, or outboard, of the affixed proximal portions 21 ofthe cuffs. In the example depicted in FIGS. 2A, 5A and 6A it can beappreciated that the location of end/edge bonds 22 relative affixedproximal portions 21 causes the free edges 20 of cuffs 18, whilestanding, to be drawn by contraction of elastic members 19 toward thecenter of the diaper (i.e., toward longitudinal axis 4-4). This maycause free edges 20 to tend to rest against areas of the wearer's crotchregion closer to the longitudinal center of the diaper when the diaperis worn. In another example, however, cuffs 18 may be constructed suchthat end/edge bonds 22 are disposed outboard of the affixed proximalportions of the cuffs 18, such that free edges 20 of cuffs 18 are drawnby contraction of elastic members 19 away from the longitudinal axis4-4, i.e., toward more outboard regions of the diaper. This may causefree edges 20 of cuffs 18 to tend to rest against the wearer's skin inlocations more laterally removed from central areas in the wearer'scrotch region, e.g., against the inward-facing surfaces of the buttocksin the gluteal cleft, and against the inner thighs in the crotch region.Better gasketing and better liquid containment may occur with one or theother configuration depending upon wearer size, position and activitylevel, and thus one or the other configuration may be preferred undergiven circumstances. Other non-limiting examples of suitablelongitudinal cuff construction are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,794,441.

Elastic members 19 may be discontinuously or continuously adhered alongtheir lengths to the material(s) forming cuff 18 structures by, e.g.,adhesive applied by strand-coating the elastic members. In some examplesthe material forming the cuffs 18 may be folded over the elastic members19 to better contain them and restrain them within the structure in theevent of failure of the adhesive. This has the further advantage ofproviding a folded (rather than cut) material edge as distal edge 20,providing a neat appearance and softer feel.

In some examples it may be desired that topsheet 16 and longitudinalcuffs 18 are continuously integrally joined where they meet, therebypreventing escape of liquid at the junction therebetween. In oneexample, an effectively urine impermeable sheet or web material (such asa polymer film) forming topsheet 16 in whole or in part may contiguouslyform a portion or layer of each longitudinal cuff 18. The topsheet canbe provided with a pattern of apertures to render it urine permeable ina zone or region overlying the liquid control structure 15.

In a simplified example made more apparent in FIGS. 2B and 5B,longitudinal outer cuffs 18 a may be formed by an alternative and/oradditional configuration by portion(s) of the material of the topsheet16, 17 and/or backsheet 14 extending laterally beyond the liquid controlstructure 15, with attached, sandwiched, enveloped or otherwise capturedouter cuff elastic members 19 a. Outer cuff elastic members 19 a mayalso be incorporated into the structure while in a pre-strainedcondition as described above. Upon completion of manufacturing, releasefrom the manufacturing line, and relaxation of the diaper structure, theelastic members 19 a longitudinally contract toward their unstrainedlengths, causing the free edges 20 a to pull longitudinally, therebycausing the diaper 10 structure to curl toward the wearer-facing side assuggested in FIG. 1, and causing the free edges 20 a of the cuffs tolift up from the structure and the outer cuffs to “stand”, as suggestedin FIG. 5B. This feature causes the free edges 20 a of the outer cuffsto draw against the wearer's skin along the inner thighs and buttocks,when the diaper is worn, thereby performing a gasketing function thatserves to contain exudates within the diaper.

In another example apparent in FIGS. 1, 2A and 5A, a diaper may beconfigured with two pairs of longitudinal cuffs, longitudinal cuffs 18,and outer longitudinal outer cuffs 18 a.

Waistband Member

As reflected in FIGS. 1, 2A and 4, diaper 10 may include an elasticizedwaistband member 28. A waistband member 28, located as shown, may beincluded to serve two functions: (1) when the diaper is worn, it mayprovide added elastic stretch to the rear waist region 11 of the diaper,for enhancing fit and comfort; and (2) when the diaper is removed forthe wearer, it may draw the rear waist region proximate the rear waistedge 29 laterally, in a manner that causes it to form a spout structureto channel urine out of the diaper at the rear. The latter effect isschematically depicted in FIGS. 6A and 6B. In FIG. 6A, the rear waistregion of the diaper appears laterally extended, as it might appearwhile being worn. In FIG. 6B, the rear waist region of the diaperappears laterally contracted such the topsheet and backsheet form aspout structure 33. The utility of spout structure 33 will be furtherexplained below.

Waistband member 28 may be disposed in the rear waist region 11 of thediaper, over the topsheet 16. However, it may also be disposed in thefront waist region 12. It may be formed of any suitable web material. Inone example, it may be formed of a nonwoven web material.

Waistband member 28 may be affixed to the diaper structure by mechanicalor thermal bonding, by adhesive or other means, or a combinationthereof. As may be appreciated from FIG. 6B, it may be affixed only atits laterally outboard portions 30, such that upon lateral contractionof waistband member 28, the sides of the rear waist portion of thediaper are drawn laterally inboard toward the longitudinal axis 4-4. Thecan cause the remaining diaper structure, such as topsheet 16 andbacksheet 14, to displace to form spout structure 33.

As suggested in FIG. 2A, waistband member 28 may include one or morewaistband elastic members 31. In a manner similar to inclusion oflongitudinal cuff elastic members 19, during manufacturing, waistbandelastic members 31 may be incorporated and affixed into the waistbandmember 28 structure in a pre-strained condition. Waistband member 28 maybe affixed to the diaper structure by mechanical or thermal bonding, byadhesive or other means, or a combination thereof. As may be appreciatedfrom FIG. 6B, it may be affixed only at its laterally outboard portions30, such that upon lateral contraction of waistband member 28, the sidesof the rear waist portion of the diaper are drawn laterally inboardtoward the longitudinal axis 4-4. The can cause the remaining diaperstructure, such as topsheet 16 and backsheet 14, to displace in az-direction and form spout structure 33. This may be appreciated bycomparison of FIGS. 6A and 6B.

When a diaper having a spout structure as described, and containing aquantity of urine following a urination event, is removed from awearer-patient and tilted, wearer-facing surface up, toward the spoutstructure, the urine will tend to flow by gravity into the spoutstructure. This concentrates the exiting flow of the urine past thewaist edge and facilitates neat pouring of the urine into a samplecontainer.

Urine Outlet

When the topsheet 16 selected for diaper 10 is highly or effectivelyurine permeable for flow therethrough in both directions, it may beunnecessary to include any supplementary features to facilitate releaseof captured urine from the front or rear waist region of the diaper viatilting with or without compression, as described herein. However, FIGS.9A and 9B illustrate additional features that may be included tofacilitate the release of urine from the diaper, for sample collection.An outlet 35 may be cut, punched or otherwise formed in either or bothof topsheet 16 and backsheet 14, in either or both of front waist region12 and rear waist region 11, which can function to allow urine containedin the envelope space between the topsheet and backsheet to more easilyand neatly be poured out of the diaper. As reflected in FIG. 9B, anoutlet 35 may be accompanied by a removable or liftable outlet cover 55.Outlet cover 55 may be suitable configured to effectively prevent flowof urine out of outlet 35 until cover 55 is lifted away from the outlet35 by the user. In one example, outlet cover 55 may be a sticker formedof urine impermeable material, covering outlet 35 and affixed to thesurrounding surfaces by adhesive. An outlet 35 may be provided incombination with the above-described spout structure 33; in one example,an outlet 35 may be located on the spout structure 33.

Exudates Indicator

It may be desired that the diaper 10 include a wetness indicator 40(see, e.g., FIGS. 3-6) that imparts a visible change of appearance tothe diaper on the outside, when urine has entered the space containingthe liquid control structure. This can help notify the caregiver thaturination has occurred, and promote a prompt removal of the diaper fromthe infant to, for example, facilitate prompt collection of asubstantially representative urine sample.

The wetness indicator may have any form, composition or configurationsuitable for a relatively prompt response. In one example, a wetnessindicator may include a material applied or affixed to the wearer-facingsurface of the backsheet 14, in the envelope space between the topsheetand the backsheet where urine will be received. In another example, awetness indicator may include an indicator material applied or affixedto an outward-facing surface of the liquid control structure 15. Theindicator material may include a composition selected, formulated and/oradapted to visibly change appearance when wetted, or when warmed bycontact with recently discharged urine. The appearance change may be oneor more of a change in color, appearance or disappearance of a visibleelement, or any other visible change that occurs when the composition iswetted or warmed by contact with urine. The material(s) forming urineimpermeable backsheet 14 may be selected to have sufficient translucence(e.g., sufficiently low opacity) to enable effectively clear visibilityof the wetness indicator on the outside of the diaper, in combinationwith the materials, composition, configuration and placement location ofthe wetness indicator 40. Non-limiting suitable examples of wetnessindicators are described in pending U.S. provisional applications Ser.Nos. 62/147,258 and 62/186,406. Other non-limiting suitable examples aredescribed in U.S. Pat Nos. 8,927,801; 8,618,349; 7,332,642; 7,159,532;6,075,178; and 4,231,370; and U.S. published application nos.2015/173968; 2013/116644; 2011/137274; and 2004/4254549.

In other examples, an included wetness indicator may operate toelectrically/electronically trigger a visible and/or audible signal whenthe diaper is wetted. In some examples, a combination of a sensingdevice or devices included in components of the diaper that will beexposed to wetness, and a signal-receiving/processing device, may beincluded. In such examples, the sensing device in the diaper generatesor triggers a signal indicative of a wetted condition, and thesignal-receiving/processing device receives the signal and provides avisible and/or audible signal to the caregiver. In some examples, thesignal-receiving/processing device may be remote from the diaper and maybe carried about by the caregiver. Non-limiting examples are describedin U.S. Pat. No. 9,241,839 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,603,403; and U.S. Pat.App. Pub. Nos. US2010/0030173 and US2010/0164733. Various improvementsand variations of such examples as well as other configurations ofdiaper wetness detection devices are described and known in the art.

In still other examples, it may be desired that the diaper include adevice adapted to detect, and cause generation of a visible and/oraudible signal of, the presence of stool in the diaper. This may providea means of facilitating prompt removal of the diaper to reduce chancesof contamination of a urine sample by constituents of the wearer'sfeces. Non-limiting examples are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,933,292.

Packaging Configuration and Information

It may be desirable to provide a separate package for each individualdiaper. A diaper as described herein may be deemed a product for medicaluse or treatment. Thus, individual packaging of each diaper may bedesirable for purposes of actually or perceivably maintaining a level ofsterility, cleanliness, purity and structural integrity of eachindividual diaper until use, in a manner similar to the manner in which,e.g., individual bandages are packaged. A supply of individuallypackaged diapers may be packaged as a group in a larger outer package.

As noted previously, in the event that a composition, for example, awater-soluble surfactant, is included in or on materials within theenvelope space between the topsheet and backsheet, it may be desirableto include information with the packaging associated with the diaper, oreven on the diaper itself, effective to notify health care and/oranalytical personnel of the inclusion of the composition in the diaper.Other information useful for enabling health care and/or analyticalpersonnel to identify, quantify or isolate components or attributes ofthe urine recovered from the diaper may also be included with thepackaging. In one additional non-limiting example, the weight of theindividual diaper may be recorded on the diaper, the packaging or onmaterial(s) included/associated with the packaging. This will enable thecaregiver to calculate the quantity by weight of urine discharged by thepatient, from, e.g., the weight of the diaper prior to use, and themeasured weight of the diaper after its removal from the wearerfollowing a urination event, prior to taking of a urine sample from thediaper. In one example, such information may be printed on the diaperitself, such as on an outward-facing surface of the backsheet or avisible layer thereof.

It may also be desirable to include information and/or indiciaassociated with the diaper, individual packaging (if included) or outerpackaging, identifying the diaper as a special-use diaper, anddistinguishing it from ordinary diapers. This will serve to notifyhealthcare professionals or other caregivers of the special design ofthe diaper, and help avoid confusion, inappropriate use of thespecial-use diaper for ordinary purposes, and intermixing of supplies ofthe special-use diapers with supplies of ordinary diapers.

Non-Invasive Method for Obtaining a Urine Sample from an Infant

Utilizing a suitable example of a diaper 10 as described herein, acaregiver may obtain a sample of urine from an infant patient by thefollowing steps:

-   -   Applying a diaper to a patient-wearer in substantially the same        manner as one would apply an ordinary disposable diaper;    -   Detecting an event of urination by the patient-wearer; this may        include observing the patient-wearer for facial, audible or        body-language signals that he or she has urinated; feeling the        diaper to detect the presence of urine; or observing a change in        appearance of the diaper resulting from the visible presence or        urine or activation of a wetness indicator included with the        diaper;    -   Removing the diaper from the patient-wearer;    -   Locating the diaper over or proximate to a sample container;    -   Tilting the diaper such that one of the front waist region and        the rear waist region is lower than the other, which orientation        may be selected according to, for example, the location of an        outlet and/or a spout structure in the front waist region or the        rear waist region; and    -   Pouring urine contained in the diaper from the lower of the        front waist region and the rear waist region, into the sample        container.    -   In some examples, the caregiver may incorporate the step of        compressing the diaper, by wringing the diaper, rolling the        diaper or otherwise, before, during or after the tilting step,        to facilitate expulsion of urine from the envelope space in the        diaper and thereby urge it out of the diaper.    -   Optionally, a step of creating an urine outlet opening in the        envelope structure of the diaper to facilitate release of urine,        following the removing step, may be included. The step may        involve cutting such an opening in the structure using a cutting        instrument, or alternatively, lifting a cover 55 from a urine        outlet 35 already included on the diaper, as described above.

The above-described method, employing any example of a diaper describedherein, may provide improved facilitation in obtaining a urine samplefrom an infant, without the need for invasive devices or techniques, orthe application of an adhesive to the infant's skin.

Liquid Release Ratio Test Method

The Liquid Release Ratio Test Method measures the volume of salinesolution that can be drained from a diaper after loading it with a knownvolume of saline solution.

Begin by removing the individual diaper samples from any packaging, andallow them to precondition at 25° C.±2 C.° and 50%±2% relative humidityfor 2 hours prior to testing. Testing is performed under these sameconditions. Following preconditioning, each diaper is tested as follows.Saline solution or water used for testing also should be at atemperature of 25° C.±2 C°.

-   -   1. Provide a calibrated graduated cylinder capable of measuring        liquid volume contained therein to the nearest 1.0 mL.    -   2. Provide a rectangular sheet of rigid, nonabsorbent material        having a flat surface (for example, a 5 mm thick LEXAN or        PLEXIGLAS sheet), of a size at least as large in both dimensions        in the x-y plane, as the diaper samples to be tested, in fully        extended configuration.    -   3. Extend the diaper sample to its full dimensions along both        directions in the x-y plane and affix it to the sheet, with the        rear waist edge of the diaper aligned with an edge of the sheet.        The diaper can be affixed to the sheet using Velcro        hook-and-loop material, tape, clamps or any other device        effective to grip or attach to the diaper along its edges, and        fix the diaper in place on the sheet in its extended        configuration. Do not apply any affixing devices directly over        or under the liquid control structure.    -   4. If the diaper has a topsheet overlying the liquid control        structure, cut a neat 1-cm square hole in the topsheet, at the        rearwardmost extent of the envelope space containing the liquid        control structure, with opposing corners aligned with and sides        oriented diagonally to (at 45-degree angles with) the        longitudinal axis of the diaper. This is to provide an outlet        for draining liquid, in the draining step below.    -   5. Lay the sheet with the affixed diaper, wearing-facing surface        up, on a horizontal work table. Locate a receiving point on the        topsheet, along the longitudinal axis of the diaper, and 100 mm        from the front waist edge.    -   6. Pour 30 mL of 0.9% saline solution (NaCl+deionized water) in        a single focused stream from an approximate height of 1 inch        above the topsheet, onto the receiving point, at a rate no        greater than 10 mL/sec and no less than 20 mL/sec.    -   7. Let the diaper rest for 60 seconds following delivery of all        30 mL of the saline solution to the diaper.    -   8. Immediately after the resting period, move the edge of the        sheet adjacent the diaper rear waist edge, to the edge of the        table. Locate the graduated cylinder below the edge of the table        in a position suitable to receive liquid drained from the        diaper, and lift the edge of the sheet adjacent the front waist        edge of the diaper (which is still affixed to the sheet) so that        the sheet and the diaper are tilted, front waist edge up, at an        angle 45 degrees from horizontal. Allow liquid to drain from the        diaper into the cylinder, for 60 seconds after tilting. (If        necessary, a plastic funnel may be used to direct the liquid        into the cylinder and ensure that none is spilled.)    -   9. Record the volume of liquid collected in the cylinder, to the        nearest mL.

Calculate the liquid release ratio for the sample as the volume ofsaline solution drained from the diaper, divided by 30 mL, andmultiplying by 100%.

Repeat this procedure for 10 diaper samples. Calculate the averageLiquid Release Ratio exhibited by the 10 samples and report the value tothe nearest 0.1%.

Conductivity Test Method

To obtain the test samples, follow all steps of the Liquid Release RatioTest Method, above, except substitute Type 1 reagent grade water forsaline solution, in Step 6. Step 9 (volume measurement), and the liquidrelease ratio calculation, are not required.

Ensure that the liquid sample drained from the diaper is at atemperature of 25° C. Measure the conductivity of a sample obtained fromeach of 10 diaper samples, and record and calculate the average of theresults. Conductivity may be measured using any suitable device adaptedfor this purpose, and adapted for testing for values within the rangesset forth in the specification above, for example, a conductivity meteravailable from Myron L Company, Carlsbad, Calif.

Surface Tension Test Method

To obtain the test samples, follow all steps of the Liquid Release RatioTest Method, above, except substitute Type 1 reagent grade water forsaline solution, in Step 6. Step 9 (volume measurement), and the liquidrelease ratio calculation, are not required.

Ensure that the liquid sample drained from the diaper is at atemperature of 25° C. Measure the surface tension of a sample obtainedfrom each of 10 diaper samples, and record and calculate the average ofthe results. Surface tension may be measured using any suitable deviceadapted for this purpose, and adapted for testing for values within theranges set forth in the specification above, for example, a surfacetensiometer available from Kibron Inc., Helsinki, Finland.

Opacity Test Method

The opacity of a backsheet material is the degree to which light isblocked by that material. A higher opacity value indicates a higherdegree of light block by the material. Opacity may be measured using a0° illumination/45° detection, circumferential optical geometry,spectrophotometer with a computer interface such as the HunterLab LabScan XE running Universal Software (available from Hunter AssociatesLaboratory Inc., Reston, Va.). Instrument calibration and measurementsare made using the standard white and black calibration plates providedby the vendor. All testing is performed in a room maintained at about23±2° C. and about 50±2% relative humidity.

Configure the spectrophotometer for the XYZ color scale, D65 illuminant,10° standard observer, with UV filter set to nominal. Standardize theinstrument according to the manufacturer's procedures using the 1.20inch port size and 1.00 inch area view. After calibration, set thesoftware to the Y opacity procedure.

To obtain the specimen, lay the diaper sample flat on a bench, bodyfacing surface downward, and measure the total longitudinal length ofthe diaper. Note a site 33% of the total length from the rear waist edgeof the diaper along the longitudinal axis. Carefully remove thebacksheet including any and all laminate components thereof, from theoutward-facing side of the diaper. A cryogenic spray, such asCyto-Freeze (obtained from Control Company, Houston, Tex.), may be usedto separate the backsheet laminate from the other components of thediaper. Cut a piece 50.8 mm by 50.8 mm centered at the site identifiedabove. Precondition specimens at about 23° C.±2 C.° and about 50%±2%relative humidity for 2 hours prior to testing.

Place the specimen over the measurement port. The specimen shouldcompletely cover the port with the surface corresponding to thegarment-facing surface of the diaper directed toward the port. Cover thespecimen with the white standard plate. Take a reading, then remove thewhite tile and replace it with black standard tile without moving thespecimen. Obtain a second reading, and calculate the opacity as follows:

Opacity=Y value (black backing)/Y value (white backing)×100

A total of 10 identical diapers are analyzed and their opacity resultsrecorded. Calculate and report the average opacity and standarddeviation for the 10 backsheet laminate measurements to the nearest0.01%.

In view of the foregoing description, the following non-limiting,non-exclusive examples are contemplated:

1. A disposable diaper product having a length and a front waist region,a rear waist region and a crotch region between the front and rear waistregions, and comprising:

a urine impermeable backsheet, and

a liquid control structure overlying the backsheet and having a plansurface area in an x-y plane and a volume coextensive with the plansurface area, and a portion of the volume defined by at least 50 percentof the plan surface area contains no more than 50 percent by weightabsorbent material.

2. A disposable diaper product having a length and a front waist region,a rear waist region and a crotch region between the front and rear waistregions, and comprising:

a urine impermeable backsheet, and

a liquid control structure overlying the backsheet,

the product having an average Liquid Release Ratio of at least 3percent, measured according to the Liquid Release Ratio Test Methodherein.

3. The product of example 1 having an average Liquid Release Ratio of atleast 3 percent, measured according to the Liquid Release Ratio TestMethod herein.

4. The product of example 2 wherein the liquid control structure has aplan surface area in an x-y plane and a volume coextensive with the plansurface area, and a portion of the volume defined by at least 50 percentof the plan surface area contains no more than 50 percent by weightabsorbent material.

5. The product of any of the preceding examples, in which aqueous liquidpoured therefrom exhibits an average conductivity no greater than 1 S/m,the aqueous liquid obtained and measured according to the ConductivityTest Method herein.

6. The product of any of the preceding examples, in which aqueous liquidpoured therefrom exhibits an average surface tension equal to or greaterthan 20 mN/m, the aqueous liquid obtained and measured according to theSurface Tension Test Method herein.

7. The product of any of the preceding examples having a urine permeabletopsheet overlying the liquid control structure.

8. The product of example 7, wherein the topsheet comprises a polymerfilm having a plurality of apertures therethrough.

9. The product of example 8, wherein the apertures are defined by funnelstructures.

10. The product of any of the preceding examples, wherein the liquidcontrol structure comprises hydrophobic fibers.

11. The product of any of the preceding examples, wherein the liquidcontrol structure comprises hydrophilic fibers.

12. The product of any of the preceding examples, wherein the liquidcontrol structure comprises a blend of hydrophilic and hydrophobicfibers.

13. The product of any of the preceding examples, wherein the liquidcontrol structure comprises synthetic fibers that have been treated torender them hydrophilic.

14. The product of any of the preceding examples, further comprising awaistband member having a lateral width, and being affixed to either oneof the front or rear waist regions, wherein the waistband member is notaffixed to said one of the front or rear waist regions along theentirety of the lateral width.

15. The product of example 14 wherein the waistband member iselasticized.

16. The product of example 15 wherein the waistband member comprises atleast one laterally pre-strained elastic member.

17. The product of any of examples 14-16 wherein the waistband membercauses the associated waist region to form a spout structure uponcontraction of the waistband member.

18. The product of any of the preceding examples further comprising anoutlet in either or both of the front waist region and the rear waistregion.

19. The product of any of the preceding examples further comprising acomponent of an exudates indicator.

20. The product of example 19 wherein the exudates indicator comprises acomposition affixed to a wearer-facing surface of the backsheet.

21. The product of any of the preceding examples further comprising leftand right longitudinal cuffs each having a proximal portion and a freedistal edge, and at least one longitudinally-oriented pre-strainedelastic member disposed proximate the free distal edge.

22. The product of example 21 further comprising left and right secondlongitudinal cuffs, each having a proximal portion and a free distaledge, and at least one longitudinally-oriented pre-strained elasticmember disposed proximate the free distal edge.

23. A method for collecting a urine sample from an infant, comprisingthe steps of:

applying a diaper to the infant, the diaper having a front waist regionand a rear waist region with a rear waist edge;

detecting an event of urination by the infant;

removing the diaper from the infant;

tilting the diaper such that one of the front or rear waist regions isdisposed vertically lower than the other; and

pouring urine from the lower of the front or rear waist regions, into asample container.

24. The method of example 23 wherein the diaper comprises an exudatesindicator, and the detection step includes observing a wet conditionindicated by the exudates indicator.

25. The method of either of examples 23 or 24 further comprising thestep of compressing the diaper before, during or after the tilting step,to facilitate expression of urine from the diaper.

26. The method of example 23 wherein the diaper is the diaper product ofany of examples 1-22.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue.

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation ofany document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect toany invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in anycombination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests ordiscloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning ordefinition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning ordefinition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shallgovern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A disposable diaper product having a length and afront waist region, a rear waist region and a crotch region between thefront and rear waist regions, and comprising: a urine impermeablebacksheet, and a liquid control structure overlying the backsheet andhaving a plan surface area in an x-y plane and a volume coextensive withthe plan surface area, and a portion of the volume defined by at least50 percent of the plan surface area contains no more than 50 percent byweight absorbent material.
 2. The product of claim 1 having an averageLiquid Release Ratio of at least 3 percent, measured according to theLiquid Release Ratio Test Method herein.
 3. The product of claim 1, inwhich aqueous liquid poured therefrom exhibits an average conductivityno greater than 1 S/m, the aqueous liquid obtained and measuredaccording to the Conductivity Test Method herein.
 4. The product ofclaim 1, in which aqueous liquid poured therefrom exhibits an averagesurface tension equal to or greater than 20 mN/m, the aqueous liquidobtained and measured according to the Surface Tension Test Methodherein.
 5. The product of claim 1 having a urine permeable topsheetoverlying the liquid control structure.
 6. The product of claim 5,wherein the topsheet comprises a polymer film having a plurality ofapertures therethrough.
 7. The product of claim 1, further comprising anelasticized waistband member having a lateral width, and being affixedto either one of the front or rear waist regions, wherein the waistbandmember is not affixed to said one of the front or rear waist regionsalong the entirety of the lateral width.
 8. The product of claim 1further comprising an outlet in either or both of the front waist regionand the rear waist region.
 9. The product of claim 1 further comprisingleft and right longitudinal cuffs each having a proximal portion and afree distal edge, and at least one longitudinally-oriented pre-strainedelastic member disposed proximate the free distal edge.
 10. A disposablediaper product having a length and a front waist region, a rear waistregion and a crotch region between the front and rear waist regions, andcomprising: a urine impermeable backsheet, and a liquid controlstructure overlying the backsheet, the product having an average LiquidRelease Ratio of at least 3 percent, measured according to the LiquidRelease Ratio Test Method herein.
 11. The product of claim 10 whereinthe liquid control structure has a plan surface area in an x-y plane anda volume coextensive with the plan surface area, and a portion of thevolume defined by at least 50 percent of the plan surface area containsno more than 50 percent by weight absorbent material.
 12. The product ofclaim 10, in which aqueous liquid poured therefrom exhibits an averageconductivity no greater than 1 S/m, the aqueous liquid obtained andmeasured according to the Conductivity Test Method herein.
 13. Theproduct of claim 10, in which aqueous liquid poured therefrom exhibitsan average surface tension equal to or greater than 20 mN/m, the aqueousliquid obtained and measured according to the Surface Tension TestMethod herein.
 14. The product of claim 10 having a urine permeabletopsheet overlying the liquid control structure.
 15. The product ofclaim 14, wherein the topsheet comprises a polymer film having aplurality of apertures therethrough.
 16. The product of claim 10,wherein the liquid control structure comprises hydrophobic fibers. 17.The product of claim 10, further comprising an elasticized waistbandmember having a lateral width, and being affixed to either one of thefront or rear waist regions, wherein the waistband member is not affixedto said one of the front or rear waist regions along the entirety of thelateral width.
 18. The product of claim 10 further comprising an outletin either or both of the front waist region and the rear waist region.19. The product of claim 1 further comprising left and rightlongitudinal cuffs each having a proximal portion and a free distaledge, and at least one longitudinally-oriented pre-strained elasticmember disposed proximate the free distal edge.
 20. A method forcollecting a urine sample from an infant, comprising the steps of:applying a diaper to the infant, the diaper having a front waist regionand a rear waist region with a rear waist edge; detecting an event ofurination by the infant; removing the diaper from the infant; tiltingthe diaper such that one of the front or rear waist regions is disposedvertically lower than the other; and pouring urine from the lower of thefront or rear waist regions, into a sample container.
 21. The method ofclaim 20 wherein the diaper is the diaper product of any of claims 1-19.